One of the most highly-regarded updates to the IHG One Rewards program since its 2022 revamp is the
Annual Lounge Membership. This Milestone Choice allows members to select systemwide lounge access for a full year. While lounges are common at InterContinental properties, and occasionally found at Crowne Plaza or Holiday Inn, a recent development in China is raising eyebrows regarding the scope of this benefit.
Reports are circulating on Chinese social media (Xiaohongshu) concerning the
Palm Springs Hotel Chengdu (Vignette Collection), which rebranded from a Fairmont to IHG on January 1, 2026. According to early guest reports, the hotel is allegedly
refusing to honor the Annual Lounge Pass, denying members entry to their lounge facilities.
The Core Issue
It is currently unclear if this is a "teething" problem or a deliberate exclusion:
- SOP Confusion: As a brand-new conversion, the hotel management might not be fully briefed on IHG’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) regarding Milestone Choices.
- Vague Terms: Has IHG left the scope of "Vignette Collection" participation undefined, allowing individual properties to opt-out of the lounge benefit?
Is This "Legal" Under IHG Terms?
While IHG maintains the right to modify benefits, the Annual Lounge Pass was marketed as a systemwide benefit for hotels with a physical lounge. If a property has an operational lounge but refuses the pass, it creates a significant inconsistency in guest experience and brand promise.
Sources (Xiaohongshu):